2009 Hyundai Sonata Updates Your Daily Drive

by Rebecca Schweitzer

For the most part, the 2009 Hyundai Sonata doesn’t seem too different compared to previous years.  However, a closer look — and a quick drive — will show some subtle improvements. Most noticeably, the 2009 Hyundai Sonata offers an updated interior with an all-new center console. This center column is a major focus in the updates for 2009. It houses an updated audio system and an optional navigation system with a high resolution touch screen. The instrument panel now has blue illumination, which adds to the new look of the interior trim. To go with its updated audio system, the Sonata also offers standard USB/iPod auxiliary inputs. These updates along with improved engines, fuel efficiency and handling make the Sonata a solid sedan in 2009.

2009 Hyundai Sonata

Engine Updates: Fuel Efficiency
For the 2009 Sonata, Hyundai offers a second-generation Theta four-cylinder engine. The Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine improves fuel economy and provides more horsepower and quicker acceleration. The Sonata’s 3.3-liter V6 engine has also been improved to offer more horsepower and better fuel economy.

Driving Updates: Don’t Just Commute; Drive
For 2009 Sonata has aimed for fun-to-drive reputation. Along with more powerful engines, all Sonata models are equipped with increased steering response and feedback for crisp turns. GLS and Limited models receive enhanced handling from an advance four-wheel independent suspension system, whiel SE models also feature sport tuning.

Exterior Updates: Get the Look
While the 2009 Sonata does not look much different than the 2008 Sonata, it receives a few updates for 2009 that will make it a little more refined. New bumpers, lamps, wheels and a new grille all give the Sonata a nice facelift, which works well with the new, upgraded interior. There are also seven new color choices.

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata Interior is both luxurious and comfortable.

Interior Updates: Complete Luxury
As mentioned, the most noticeable update for the 2009 Sonata is the interior with a new center counsel and instrument panel. Hyundai also expanded the available interior colors for the Sonata by adding Cocoa Brown to the existing Camel and Gray options. Since the Sonata is classified as a large car, the interior space allows for a lot of comfort, and Sonata adds to that comfort with dual-zone climate controls for the driver and front-seat passenger and front seat warmers. Plus, the front cup holders have been upgraded to hold more, so that Venti Latte is sure to stay in its place on the drive to work.

Audio Updates: Driving to Your Own Beat
Sonata also offers the updated audio system with iPod or USB integration. Not only will drivers be able to hear their favorite tunes through the six-speaker audio system, but they will also be able to access and control tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. Since the driver and passengers can view song information through the audio unit and not just the iPod, navigating 80 gigabytes of music is made easier and safer than scrolling through a small iPod screen while driving.

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata is available in three models, which range from the affordable, four-cylinder GLS to the sporty SE to the luxury Limited model. Pricing begins at $18,120.

2009 Hyundai Sonata Specs